August 8, 2008

Australia exported 769,890 head of live cattle to Indonesia during 2007-08, up 14 percent in total exports and hitting a new record high.

While Indonesia dominated shipments for the year, accounting for 71 percent of total exports, shipments were valued at AUD 540 million (US$482.4 million), up 9 percent on-year.

Cattle exports to Indonesia were boosted by strong demand and abundant supplies from northern Australia.

Despite the 21-percent increase in volume, export returns to Indonesia for 2007-08 only grew 13 percent on-year to AUD 342 million FOB (US$305.8 million), as the high Australian dollar against the Indonesian rupiah dampened returns.

In addition, Israel continued to be Australia's second largest live cattle market, with shipments increasing 8 percent on-year to 58,980 head. Exports to Mexico increased to 25,969 head, and the Philippines to 15,615 head. However, shipments to Malaysia and China fell to a new record low of 26,868 head and 6,755 head, down 49 percent and 44 percent, respectively.